P Chuck Lofgren: Not much fun
by Chuck Murr of IndiansInk.net, August 23, 2009 at 10:54am ET
Chuck Lofgren Profile
Chuck Lofgren endured one of the worst starts of his career, giving up 10 runs on eight hits and four walks over only four innings in a 16-2 loss to Toledo.
The left-hander has lost four in a row since July 24. He's 0-4 in five starts since. He was exceptional in a no-decision on Aug. 3 in which he pitched seven scoreless innings. But in his four losses, he has given up 24 hits and 22 runs in 18 1-3 innings, a 10.80 ERA.
Once considered one of the Indians' brightest pitching prospects after going 17-5 at Class A Kinston in 2006, the lefty has had to battle the past few seasons. He went 12-7 at Double-A Akron in 2007, but had a 4.37 ERA and allowed more hits than innings.
A year ago, troubled by some health issues regarding his family, Lofgren went only 2-6 with a 5.99 ERA at Akron, but he rebounded well early this season. In eight starts for the Aeros, he went 3-1 with a 1.48 ERA and appeared back on track. He had the usual growing pains after being promoted to Triple-A, but was holding his own until the recent downslide.
Look for Lofgren to eventually make it to the majors. Drafted in the fourth round in 2004, both he and the Indians probably expected him to be pitching in Cleveland by now. It is taking a little longer, but Lofgren's natural talent and his fortitude in overcoming adversity should pay off in the long run.
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